Everyday Vacations

Is modern-day society leading to the extinction of freetime? It seems that the days of having plenty of timeto accomplish all of the normal day-to-dayresponsibilities and having a bit of free time arevirtually gone.

How did this happen? All of the new technologicaladvances should be providing an abundance of free time.Nearly everything has been automated in some way.There are fast cars to transport us quickly to ourdestination, dishwashers and robotic vacuum cleaners totake care of household tasks, cell phones for immediatecommunication and problem resolution, and computers tospeed up previously tedious tasks.

The problem seems to be that because we are capable ofdoing so much, the expectations are higher. The barhas risen. Our employers, our families and even wehave ever-increasing demands on our time. What can bedone to draw the line and hold on to a bit of sanity inour lives?

One technique is to take a “vacation” every day. Thatis not to say go away on a literal trip every day, butrather take a break and do something enjoyable eachday. Allot some time each day whether it be thirtyminutes or even ten to do something truly enjoyable andsatisfying. For some this may mean doing nothing atall. For others, it may mean doing somethingmeaningful that normally is not given full priorityover other obligations.

A sense of well-being can be accomplished with thirtyminutes of reading a good book, playing with the dog,or simply relaxing under a big shade tree. Even tenminutes of a relaxing activity can be extremelybeneficial in this day of non-stop constant on-the-goactivity. A ten minute rest for the eyes can reallyadd a spark to a dragging energy level. A quick walkaround the grounds can also offer a much needed breakand a chance to clear the mind.

Occasionally, when a greater amount of time can be setaside, mini-vacations or outings should be planned. Itis important to include some fun in everyday life.Extreme work schedules can ultimately lead to burnoutand other serious problems. Amazingly, time off spentdoing enjoyable activities can actually lead to moreproductivity in work and family responsibilities.

It is reported that many in Corporate America are nottaking their earned vacation time in full. And, ifthey do manage to take a vacation, they are takingtheir cell phones and personal digital assistants withthem. It is important to find a way to take advantageof this valuable time off. In terms of value, it is amatter of health rather than dollars and cents. Thehealth of the country depends on utilizing time off forpersonal relaxation and pursuits.

With a little planning and discipline, a balancebetween work and life can be realized.